Blackheads and whiteheads are usually more distinct on the nose tip, cheeks, chin, or even forehead. Stubborn dirt in the pores can be difficult to completely remove,
regardless of how many extractions and facials you have done. There are many improper prescriptions on the market but they can easily damage sensitive skin and cause peeling or trigger pimple and breakouts. How to remove blackheads correctly? Let the skincare expert guide you to smooth skin in simple yet gentle ways.
Why are there blackheads?
Typically, people have misconceptions about pimples and even think the black dot is caused by dust but this is not the truth, and it will not be easily removed by just washing your face constantly.
Acne forms due to sebum clogging pores, skin metabolites, and corneum accumulation. When the sebum and corneum oxidize, they become black and so they are commonly known as blackheads. If these blackheads are not immediately cleared away, once inflamed, these blackheads may turn into pimples.
What is the main cause of blackheads?
Overactive sebaceous glands: excessive sebum oil secretion clogs up pores.
Imbalance diet: especially deep-fry, oily, spicy & stimulating food.
Endocrine disorders: affect the sebaceous gland secretion, mainly related to sleeping disorders, stress, medication & emotion handling issues.
Clogged pores: keratinization of follicles, resulting in dirty pores, oil, and sebaceous gland secretions unable to channel out smoothly.
Active Androgen: with imbalanced hormones, androgens will lead to active sebaceous glands, hence males usually have oilier skin compared to females.
Causal of Blackheads and whiteheads acne is usually due to the annex of genetics and environmental reasons. Therefore, regardless of gender or skin type, researches show that by using salicylic acid, mandelic acid, and other skincare products, they are able to effectively regulate the build-up of dead skin cells, clogged pores, and rebalance active sebaceous glands.
How to remove blackheads?
Since blackheads are caused by builds-up of dead skin cells, sebum and dirt, the only way is to get rid of the substances that clog your pores.
How to remove blackheads 1: Gently Exfoliate
Cautions, the commonly used scrubs are incapable of completely removing blackheads moreover some ingredients can easily irritate the skin. Thus, when choosing exfoliant, gentle and mild is crucially important.
Acid / Chemical Peel is a well known exfoliant, such as well-formulated Mandelic Acid that can penetrate deep into pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells, while keeping pores unblocked and metabolizing deep-seated acne. Whether dry, oily, or combination skin, exfoliation is the crucial step to get rid of blackheads and acne; The mildness of ERH Mandelic Acid is suitable for all skin types, as long as proper usage and observation of the skin condition is well managed by adjusting the dosage, frequency and amount.
How to remove blackheads 2: Periodical Deep Cleansing
Although blackheads, whiteheads, and acne can be removed by harsh extractions, It is however not recommended for those with dry and sensitive skin, if the beautician’s technique is unprofessional, overbearing extractions, and/ or using an unsterilized tools will further damage the skin and caused infected follicles, which will then turn into pimples.
Maskingdom 3 in 1 Popping Blackhead Kit, specifically designed for pores deep cleansing purposes, step 1 softens sebum, and gently unclogged the surface of the pores, acting as the steamer treatment in the beauty salon; step 2 uses the bamboo charcoal ingredient from the Himalayas to absorb the attached dirt and thoroughly uproot the blackhead. Finally, in step 3 apply the Clarify Toner to tighten while calming down the pores to achieve smooth silky skin.
How to remove blackheads 3: Improves excessive sebaceous secretion
Some people are born with high sebaceous secretion, so the pores are often clogged with sebum and causing acne production. Usually, applying retinol, mandelic acid, azelaic acid, and salicylic acid to regulate, these ingredients are conducive to skin oil-water balance whilst reducing excessive oil production.
Especially for those who experience severe excessive oil production, you may hear of orally consumable Retinol which is categorized as pharma-medical. It is highly recommended to consult a dermatologist if none of the above are efficient.
Recommendations for Blackheads’ Concerns
As long as you maintain your stratum corneum in a normal condition, and choose suitable products that can regulate the accumulation of dead skin cells and residues, with a period of continuous use and maintenance, the chance of blackheads can be reduced.
20% Mandelic Acid 20% Total Solution Serum
Mandelic acid is known for its lipophilic (lipid-loving) and gentle characteristics. It is formulated with a perfect 20% golden concentration that gently regulates blackheads and clears dirty pores while achieving skin rejuvenation. Long-term use can reduce blackheads & acne formation, also with specially added Glycerin that acts as moisture for skin.
Most products in the market may have allergens or added irritating ingredients such as alcohol, menthol, etc. Although those ingredients will bring an instant dry and cool sensation when used, they may also cause damage to the skin which can lead to fragileness or the pH level not being lower enough to achieve the effect of corneum regulation. The good news is ERH has developed a 20% Mandelic Acid which is formulated at the best pH value between 3 to 4, mild yet effectively improves oily and acne skin issues, even suitable for daily use!